Notes and Editorial Reviews

Composed of live and studio recordings from the 1960s and '70s, this compilation of Horowitz favorites proves that simple, poetic pieces can be very powerful. Loved by his audiences, Horowitz considered these relatively short works to be rich, crystalline, and full of feeling, each able to be carved in a very personal way. Arranged arbitrarily without regard to contrast of tempo, or stylistic unity, the program resembles that of encore pieces performed at the artist's whim, creating the illusion of spontaneity. The record's variety nonetheless showcases Horowitz's multifaceted artistry, displaying his crisp touch and rock-steady rhythm.The disc contains works from Schubert, Chopin, Scarlatti, and Debussy, to name a few, all extremelyRead more romantic in nature, somewhat improvisatory, and performed with a passion that seethed from the pianist's very soul. The album's coup de grace, Schumann's "Traumerei" is so dreamy it almost drifts away before the artist's fingers can play the last dangling keystrokes. Perhaps closest to his heart, these colorful works come alive through accordance with Horowitz's own consciousness. It is from his passion as a pianist that this music is brought so intensely to life. Read less

Customer Reviews

Average Customer Review: ( 1 Customer Review )

Horowitz Plays Popular ClassicsDecember 16, 2011By T. Drake (South Euclid, OH)See All My Reviews"To be more than a virtuoso, you must first be a virtuoso." Ferruccio Busoni Although this CD of previously released material is being promoted as a companion to the video documentary "Vladimir Horowitz--a Reminiscence," there is little connection between the two. Rather than release a CD of pieces which Horowitz was heard playing in the film, Sony has instead chosen to release an album of mostly "popular" piano classics. Most of the pieces on this CD are relaxed and contemplative, and there is none of Horowitz trademark diabolical virtuosity here. Nevertheless, his years with Columbia Masterworks (now Sony Classical) were fruitful ones, and the pianist won the majority of his Grammys while under contract to that label from 1962 to 1973.

Horowitz was never considered one of Schubert's greatest interpreters, but this performance of the G-flat Impromptu is notable for the pianist's uncanny ability to balance the melody against the flowing accompaniment, and for its natural phrasing and tonal beauty.

The Chopin pieces are from various Horowitz albums, including some live material. Although the playing is uniformly outstanding, one wishes Sony had included more Mazurkas, a form in which Horowitz excelled. Early on, Horowitz was lauded for his interpretations of the music of Rachmaninoff, his friend and mentor. The two brief pieces here, recorded live in 1968, are played with characteristic brooding melancholy. The LP from which these works were taken won Horowitz one of his many Grammys.

Two of the three Scriabin pieces here are from Horowitz's legendary all-Scriabin LP, recorded in 1972, another Grammy winner. The third piece was recorded at the same time, but not released until 1992, despite being top-flight Horowitz and Scriabin.

Although it duplicates items which Horowitz fanatics already have, this CD is ideal for the Horowitz newcomer. It is also an excellent refutation for those who still like to pigeonhole Vladimir Horowitz as a mere virtuoso.